Cholesterol Medicine - What Are The Risks Involved?

Posted by on October 7th, 2008 at 05:00am

Medicine to keep our cholesterol level in check has been widely used up till this day, even with the question of its effectiveness answered, many still wonder, is it really safe? Cholesterol medicine can be spit into two main groups, man-made and natural. While people tend to believe more in keeping their cholesterol levels in check through dieting, exercise which are deemed the safest ways, others still believe in consuming pills to keep their health in check.

Natural herbs such as Policosanol, Guggulipid and green tea extracts all have medicinal properties in the area of keeping our cholesterol levels in check. They are exceptionally effective in lowering our cholesterol levels but are they safe? Fortunately for many, they are and they are being used widely throughout the world. However, it is not always the case where medicine would not cause any side-effects; much on the contrary, man-made cholesterol supplements have serious side-effects.

Niacin, commonly known as a type of B vitamin, is a man-made cholesterol supplement that is very effective in lowering cholesterol levels. However, there is a catch behind it when you use it; you may suffer from one or many of the side-effects that comes with it.
Some of these side-effects include increased effect on high blood pressure medication, indigestion, liver inflammation, diarrhea ad nausea. Another one of the more common side effects associated with niacin is when used in a large dose; it would lead to the widening of blood vessels resulting in skin flushing or hot flashes. Another huge worry for doctors is that patients accidentally mix niacin together with Statin and consume them together, which would bring dire consequences. This is especially so when Statin is another medication used for lowering cholesterol, and uneducated patients may be impatient to consume both medication together not knowing what they are doing is fatal, in an attempt to lower their cholesterol faster.

Other side effects associated with other cholesterol supplements are muscle aches and cramps. When these effects are exhibited, it is important for the person using the drug to know that it is time to stop using it to protect his own life.

No doubt, side-effects are almost synonymous with most medication, but it would be better if they are used under the supervision of a doctor or physician. Otherwise, the best option would be to opt for a less risky way to lower one’s cholesterol, through dieting or even exercising.

Under Cholesterol